Cyprus Peace Operation veteran recalls heroism, compassion of Turkish soldiers

War veteran Ferhat Demirkaya, living in Konya, reminisces about the Cyprus Peace Operation, recalling the heroic and compassionate actions of Turkish soldiers during the conflict.

Demirkaya, who joined the military at the age of 13 in 1953, later participated in the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation as a master sergeant. He remained in the Turkish Republic of Turkish Cyprus for a year following the operation. Over the years, he has preserved significant memorabilia from that period, including a rifle given to him by a soldier, a small figurine taken from a house, and photos taken at strategic locations.

Even after five decades, Demirkaya continues to speak to the memories on his walls, determined to ensure these stories do not fade with time.

A surprise deployment to Cyprus

Demirkaya recalls that the troops had no prior knowledge of their mission until the final moment. When they were ordered to move directly to the operation zone, they realized that an amphibious landing was imminent.

Departing from Mersin by ship the night before, they reached the island at dawn, marking the start of the operation. “The offensive began as soon as we landed, and Girne fell swiftly,” Demirkaya stated.

Turkish soldiers helped a pregnant Greek woman give birth

One of Demirkaya’s most striking memories is a demonstration of Turkish soldiers’ humanitarian values.

“A hotel in Girne was full of Greeks. We received information that a pregnant woman was about to give birth. Without hesitation, our colonel ordered, ‘Take this woman and find a place in Girne where she can deliver. If there is no such place, I will provide a passphrase—take her to Nicosia immediately.'”

I sometimes wonder about that child. He or she would be 50 years old today, and everyone in that hotel witnessed this moment. I was one of those witnesses.”

Greek homeowner trusted Turkish soldiers

Demirkaya also recounted an encounter with a Greek homeowner who remained in his house despite the advancing Turkish troops.

“He spoke a little Turkish. He was a policeman staying at home with his family and children. I asked him, ‘Why didn’t you flee?’ He replied, ‘I am not afraid of Turkish soldiers.’

When I inquired further, he explained that he had read the memoirs of a soldier from the Korean War. In those memoirs, he learned that Turkish forces never harmed prisoners of war. That’s why he stayed—he knew Turkish soldiers would never cause him harm.”

Emotional moment as call to prayer echoed in Girne Castle

One of the most unforgettable moments for Demirkaya was hearing the call to prayer after Turkish forces secured Girne Castle.

“There were five anti-aircraft guns inside the castle. One enemy aircraft fired at the fortress, damaging the armor of one of the guns. Had the bullet hit just 35-40 centimeters to the left, it would have penetrated the barrel. After this attack, the enemy retreated.

As we were discussing this incident, a beautiful call to prayer filled the air. Our colonel interrupted his speech and said, ‘Comrades, may our campaign be blessed. This sound will never cease to be heard here again.’

We were all overwhelmed with emotion and pride. Later, we discovered that the soldier who recited the prayer was one of our own.”

Now 84, Demirkaya remains deeply connected to the memories of the Cyprus Peace Operation. His recollections serve as a testament to the courage, discipline, and compassion of Turkish soldiers.